Politics

Northern Political Leaders Urge Jonathan to Enter 2027 Presidential Race

Published by Tope Fakinlede on August 19th, 2024.

Northern Political Leaders Urge Jonathan to Enter 2027 Presidential Race

Goodluck Ebele Jonathan

Political figures from Nigeria’s northern region, which has a significant portion of the country’s voting population, are actively working to persuade former President Goodluck Jonathan to run in the 2027 presidential election, according to sources who spoke with FIRST CLASS GISTS last night.

Recent remarks by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed—indicating he would forgo a presidential bid if Jonathan chooses to run—suggest that these efforts are serious and not merely speculative. This strategy appears to have gained momentum following the recent #EndBadGovernance protests, which highlighted growing discontent with the current administration led by Bola Tinubu.

Despite these moves, Jonathan has not yet committed to the race. Sources close to the former president suggest that discussions about his potential candidacy are premature, as he remains focused on his international and humanitarian work rather than on a 2027 campaign.

Governor Mohammed, who has served as a minister under Jonathan, publicly stated he would not seek the presidency if Jonathan decides to run. Mohammed, who spoke at a Save Africa Initiative (SAI) event, praised Jonathan’s experience and leadership, arguing that he would perform well if given another chance in office. He also suggested that Jonathan’s decision to run would transcend party lines, and he would fully support Jonathan’s candidacy if it were to happen.

Jonathan, who previously served as president from 2010 to 2015, is viewed by some as a fair candidate given that Tinubu’s term is expected to end in May 2027, making it logical for the presidency to rotate back to the South by 2031. Jonathan’s previous administration had implemented inclusive policies and addressed critical issues like the Almajiri education system, which some believe could have been continued.

Discontent with the current administration in the North is evident, with some attributing it to perceived mismanagement and unfavorable policies, including the recent removal of fuel subsidies and the devaluation of the Naira. Critics, including Prof Khalifa Dikwa from the Borno Elders Forum, have expressed dissatisfaction with Tinubu’s appointees and policies, arguing that they have negatively impacted the North.

In response, Vice President Kashim Shettima has denied claims that Tinubu is undermining northern interests, highlighting that key northern figures have been appointed to important positions under the current administration. Shettima asserts that the president remains committed to addressing regional concerns and will address criticisms in due course.